This list of the best things to do in New York City for free was written by Alejandro Beltran, a NYC local and co-founder of New York Simply (an official partner of Apple Maps).
If there’s one thing my years of living in NYC have made it it’s money-conscious, this place can be so expensive it hurts. That’s why I’ve been so keen on finding the best things to do in New York City for free, my wallet can only take so much!
Luckily I didn’t struggle, the Big Apple is abounding in free parks, people-watching opportunities and memorable activities you can experience without spending a dime. In this article I’ll tell you all about my local favorites for experiencing NYC for free, so let’s get to it!
Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The 10 Best Neighborhoods & 3 to Avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s our favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
Free Things to Do in New York City
Table of Contents: Free Activities in NYC
Table of Contents: NYC Free Things to Do
- Free Things to Do in New York City
- #20. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge
- #19. Go Bird Watching at the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
- #18. Take in the Iconic New York City Skyline from Pier 57
- #17. Go Gallery Hopping in Chelsea
- #16. Enjoy Window Shopping in SoHo
- #15. Visit the Tomb of President Ulysses S. Grant
- #14. Check Out the Street Performers at Washington Square Park
- #13. Explore Coney Island
- #12. Admire the Impressive Oculus Mall & 9/11 Memorial
- #11. Tour the FIT Museum
- #10. Explore St. Patrick’s Cathedral
- #9. Stroll the The Bushwick Collective’s Street Art
- #8. Explore Governors Island
- #7. Be a Part of a Live Audience at a Late Night TV Show
- #6. Walk the High Line
- #5. Explore the New York Public Library
- #4. Ride the Staten Island Ferry
- #3. Peruse Little Island
- #2. Spend the Day in Central Park
- #1. Cheer on a Parade
- More Fun Things to Do in New York City
- More Tips for Visiting New York City
- Free Activities in NYC (Post Summary)
- Map of Free Activities in NYC
#20. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge
The Brooklyn Bridge is an instantly-recognizable landmark, and everyday more than 116,000 vehicles, 3,000 bikers and 30,000 pedestrians use it to cross the East River. You should join them. The 150+ year-old giant spans a mile and a half, and walking its length only takes about 30 minutes. Taking the time to stroll the length of it is one of the best free things to do in New York City, the view is priceless.
#19. Go Bird Watching at the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Bird watching at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge is an underrated, free activity in NYC. The refuge is home to over 330 bird species, serving as a crucial migratory stopover. The diversity is astounding – birds like ospreys and snowy egrets call it home and will leave even the most stubborn city-slicker wide-eyed.
Managed by the National Park Service, it’s public land and one of the best things to do in New York City for free. Witnessing this bustling wildlife refuge, just miles from the city, brings a profound connection to nature, making it an enriching and cost-free escape for any nature enthusiast or curious explorer.
#18. Take in the Iconic New York City Skyline from Pier 57
The New York City skyline is world-famous, but let’s be honest – tickets to the city’s five observation decks aren’t for the faint of heart. If you’re visiting NYC on a budget you can instead visit free viewpoints, where you can take in the glory of the monolithic skyscrapers without breaking the bank.
Pier 57 is my local favorite, it’s a new, welcomed addition to Chelsea. It’s a small food-hall on the ground level, and you can climb to a free, open-air viewpoint for striking views of the New York City skyline.
#17. Go Gallery Hopping in Chelsea
Chelsea is chock-full of free art galleries, in fact you could easily spend an afternoon pin-balling around the New York City neighborhood. The main concentration of galleries can be found between 18 & 28 Streets and 10th & 11th Avenues, a lively section of Chelsea that makes gallery hopping one of the best free things to do in NYC.
To make things easier, these are some of my favorite free exhibits to check out in NYC:
- Pace Gallery: 540 W 25th St, New York, NY 10001
- Sundaram Tagore: 542 W 26th St, New York, NY 10001
- Lehmann Maurine: 501 W 24th St, New York, NY 10011
- David Zwirner: 525 W 19th St, New York, NY 10011
- 303 Gallery: 555 W 21st St, New York, NY 10011
#16. Enjoy Window Shopping in SoHo
Window shopping in SoHo (New York City’s shopping district) isn’t just a free peek at luxury goods, it can be an all out experience. The artful window displays stop you in your tracks and you can’t help but be inspired by the broad range of vintage stores, boutiques, and luxury designers.
But the real reason window shopping in SoHo is among the best things to do in NYC for free is due to the people watching opportunities, the locals take fashion to new heights. I can’t help but feel under-dressed anytime I’m in the neighborhood because everyone looks like they’re hot off the runway.
#15. Visit the Tomb of President Ulysses S. Grant
Address: W 122nd St &, Riverside Dr, New York, 10027
Ulysses S. Grant was a General and the 18th President of the United States, and his mausoleum in the Upper West Side is the largest tomb in North America. Today, visitors can pay their respects to President Ulysses S. Grant and his wife, Julia Grant, by visiting his tomb in New York City for free. You can get free tours of the mausoleum through the National Park Service.
#14. Check Out the Street Performers at Washington Square Park
Nestled in the heart of Greenwich Village and New York University, Washington Square Park is a crossroads of culture that is never void of some form of entertainment. The greenery and the Washington Square Arch are the perfect backdrop for the street performers, chess-enthusiasts and marijuana smokers (just being honest). Stopping by for even just an hour can provide some of the best free entertainment in New York City.
#13. Explore Coney Island
Beyond its historic amusement parks, the Coney Island boardwalk beckons with free spectacles. The Atlantic Ocean’s waves, colorful costumed characters, and the allure of a sun-soaked beach are all free hidden-gems in New York City. If weather allows pack some beach towels and your family, and claim a plot of sand, hanging out at the beach is one of the best free things do in New York City with kids.
Address: 180 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10007
#12. Admire the Impressive Oculus Mall & 9/11 Memorial
The Oculus Center is a striking transportation hub and shopping complex completed in 2016, replacing the original World Trade Center Mall that was destroyed during 9/11. Its futuristic, wing-like structure has made it one of the most sought-after, free tourist attractions in NYC.
And just behind the Oculus is the moving 9/11 Memorial, a solemn tribute to the victims of the September 11 attacks. It features twin reflecting pools set in the footprints of the Twin Towers, surrounded by names of the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives. The design evokes contemplation, and swinging by to pay your respects is one of the most moving things to do in NYC (and it’s also free).
#11. Tour the FIT Museum
No, I’m not telling you to work out. 😉
Nestled in the heart of the fashion capital, the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) stands as a treasure trove, and the best part? It’s free! Unveiling the evolution of style through its exhibitions, FIT showcases everything from vintage couture to cutting-edge designs.
With a collection spanning centuries it’s a fashionista’s dream, offering insights into the industry’s rich history. Explore iconic garments, witness the craftsmanship, and immerse yourself in the ever-evolving world of fashion with one of New York City’s best free things to do.
#10. Explore St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Address: 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022
St. Patrick’s Cathedral is the most beautiful church in New York City. Located right off 5th Avenue, this Neo-Gothic style cathedral has been stopping people in their tracks since its completion in 1879. And it’s one of the most popular, free attractions in NYC, welcoming more than 5 million visitors annually. Touring the inside is a no-brainer, and you’re welcome to visit so long as the front doors are open.
#9. Stroll the The Bushwick Collective’s Street Art
Address: 427 Troutman St, Brooklyn, NY 11237
The Bushwick Collective Street Art is an open-air gallery that’s surprisingly still a hidden, local-gem. Colorful murals and captivating street art transform the neighborhood’s blocks into an urban canvas each mural tells a unique story (most are along Troutman Street, between Irving and Cypress Avenues).
Founded by Joseph Ficalora, the project has evolved into a dynamic showcase featuring works by local and international artists. From larger-than-life murals to hidden gems on warehouse doors, taking the time to admire the talent is one of the best things to do in New York City for free.
#8. Explore Governors Island
Only a 10 minute ferry ride from lower Manhattan, Governor’s Island is a relaxing reprieve from the nonstop pace of New York City. Although technically getting there will cost you a ferry ride ($2 round-trip for adults) there’s an abundance of free things to do once you get there.
You will find history dating back to the Revolutionary War making it a great spot for history buffs. You can walk around Fort Jay and Castle Williams which are both run by the National Park Service.
We spent four hours exploring Governors Island and I was quite impressed. The island is full of public green spaces and we saw a lot of folks picnicking and napping on the lawns. Even if the plan is to just come here to tan on a summer day, its among the best free things to do in NYC.
#7. Be a Part of a Live Audience at a Late Night TV Show
The Big Apple is the mecca of late-night television, and a lot of the shows use live audiences. My favorite show to get tickets for is The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. His guests are the biggest pop-stars and celebrities, and getting to see them live is one of the best things to do for free in NYC.
As part of the audience all you have to do is clap when your told, which is easy enough. Between commercial breaks Fallon walks around the audience, and the live band keeps energy sky-high. Tickets are free, you just need to apply in advance and hope you have some luck. I know it might seem like a long shot, but I’ve gotten into about half of the tapings I’ve applied for.
#6. Walk the High Line
The High Line is a free, captivating park built over a former elevated railway track that stretches through the Chelsea. Lined with lush greenery, public art installations, and scenic views of the cityscape it welcomes more than 8 million visitors annually! Although it’s a mile and a half long, the best stretch is from the Chelsea Market to Hudson Yards, which is only about a mile.
#5. Explore the New York Public Library
The New York Public Library is well worth the pit-stop during your visit to NYC. Designed in a Beaux-Arts style, this building stands in stark contrast to the glass and iron it surrounds. Being as it’s a public library spending time exploring it is one of the best free things to do in NYC.
When it opened to the public in 1911, the library was officially the largest marble building ever built in the country. No small task, considering it took 16 years to construct this epic structure. Today it still opens its doors to both tourists and locals alike, and has had its time on the big-screen too.
#4. Ride the Staten Island Ferry
Address to board in Manhattan: 4 Whitehall Street New York NY 10004
The Staten Island Ferry departs from lower Manhattan and offers striking views of New York and the Statue of Liberty! It’s one of the most popular free things to do in NYC, so expect crowds. The ferry takes approximately 22 million people a year (about 70,000 passengers a day) between Manhattan and Staten Island. Just know that you must disembark the ferry when it reaches Staten Island, and line back up to board toward Manhattan. Be quick, otherwise you’ll have to wait for the next ferry to arrive.
#3. Peruse Little Island
Address: Pier 55 in Hudson River Park, New York, NY 10014
There are a lot of great parks in New York City, and more than one deserve a shout-out. Having said that, Little Island is a redesigned pier that sits over the Hudson River on bulbous, cement pillars so how could I not give it a shout-out? Standing at a mere 2.4 acres, there’s a small hike up to a viewpoint that offers a priceless view of the Manhattan skyline, but you’ll get to snap your photos for free!
#2. Spend the Day in Central Park
Visiting Central Park is a quintessential New York City experience that everyone should have on their itinerary, regardless of budgets. Spanning 843 acres in the heart of Manhattan, the park offers some of the most memorable free activities in New York City, like leisurely strolls along iconic pathways to picnics on the Great Lawn. It even hosts free events, including concerts and Shakespearean performances that are the cherry-on-top to an impressive array of fun things to do in Central Park.
#1. Cheer on a Parade
Attending a parade in New York City is a vibrant, cost-free experience that immerses you in the city’s pulsating energy and diverse culture. The city hosts more than 40 annual parades, including icons like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and cultural celebrations like the St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
These events showcase the city’s spirit and offer a front-row seat to a kaleidoscope of colors, music, and performances. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, cheering on a parade will have you feeling like a part of this vibrant community, all while enjoying one of the best things to do in New York City for free.
Some of the most popular (and free) parades in New York City include:
- Macy’s Day Parade
- Pride March
- St. Patrick’s Day Parade
- Chinese Lunar New Year
- Greenwich Village Halloween Parade
Frequently Asked Questions: Non-Negotiable Free Things to Do in New York City
You can explore the iconic Central Park, attend parades, discover street art in Bushwick, and visit museums like FIT—all offering unforgettable experiences without spending a dime in New York City.
Yes, the Bronx Zoo offers free admission on Wednesdays, making it a great opportunity to explore the wildlife and exhibits at no cost.
Yes, Central Park is free to enter and explore, providing a vast and beautiful urban oasis for visitors without any admission fees.
Absolutely, you can experience the richness of New York City on a budget by exploring free attractions, attending events, and taking advantage of affordable dining and transportation options.
Explore free, family-friendly adventures like Central Park playgrounds and Staten Island Ferry for memorable experiences in NYC with kids at no cost.
More Fun Things to Do in New York City
What You Can’t Afford to Miss: 30 Best Things to Do in New York City (For First Time Visitors)
Traveling with the Kids?: 15+ EPIC Things to Do in New York City With Kids
Things to Impress Your Teens: 20 Things to Do in New York City with Teens (You Won’t Soon Forget!)
How to Look Like a Local: 25 Unique (Non-Touristy) Things to Do in New York City
More Tips for Visiting New York City
Best NYC Apps: 10 Helpful Apps To Download When Visiting NYC (For a First Trip)
What to Avoid: 12 Terrible Tourist Traps in New York City (And How to Avoid Them)
Safety Tips for NYC: 10 New York City Travel Safety Tips: Advice from a Local
Best Walking Shoes: 10 Best Shoes for Walking Around New York City (By Season)
Free Activities in NYC (Post Summary)
- Cheer on a Parade
- Spend the day in Central Park
- Hang out at Little Island
- Ride the Staten Island Ferry
- Explore the New York Public Library
- Walk the High Line
- Be a part of a live audience at a late night TV show
- Explore Governors Island
- Stroll the charming streets of South Street Seaport (+ Hang Out on 15)
- Explore St. Patrick’s Cathedral
- Wander Industry City
- Admire the impressive Oculus Mall & 9/11 Memorial
- Explore Coney Island
- People watch at Washington Square Park
- Visit the tomb of President Ulysses S. Grant
- Peruse a charming New York City bookstore
- Go gallery hopping in Chelsea
- Take in the iconic New York City skyline from Pier 57
- Go bird watching at the Jamaica Bay Wildlife refuge
- Walk the Brooklyn Bridge
Map of Free Activities in NYC
And there it is! My list of best free things to do in NYC. Let me know if there’s anything I missed!
Cheers, Al.
Miranda says
Thank you so much for this article! It was a great read and gave lots of ideas for our upcoming trip. I will be visiting NYC for the first time and we will be spending about 24 hours or so there. We want to get in as much as possible as inexpensive as possible, so this was much appreciated. Getting into a Jimmy Fallon or Kelly Clarkson show would be awesome, it’s in March and I have no idea when to sign up